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BPA launches port links review

[ August 3, 2020   //   ]

The British Ports Association is has launched a review of UK port connectivity to highlight to government and local authorities where post-Coronavirus investment in infrastructure can be concentrated to maximise economic growth and recovery.

Along with infrastructure outside of ports such as road and rail links it will also assess energy and digital capabilities.

The BPA is inviting ports to submit an inventory of required external improvements which will be used to examine the progress made since the Department for Transport’s English Port Connectivity Study two years ago.

The association says that the Covid crisis has demonstrated the resilience of the UK supply chain as ports worked efficiently through the pandemic but now more than ever, it is critical to consider where government investment can be targeted to unlock growth and provide a boost to the economy.

 With very few exceptions, UK port infrastructure investments are privately financed; investments are market-led and £1.7bn is currently in the pipeline around the UK, says BPA, adding: “Ports ask for very little from the Government but do rely on public investment in external infrastructure to stay competitive.”

The review is being led by BPA policy and economic analyst, Phoebe Warneford-Thomson, who said: “At a time when the government needs to stimulate significant growth to rebuild from the economic crisis, the decision to invest in infrastructure is straight forward. Infrastructure investment of 1% of GDP has a multiplier effect which can lead to an increase of 2.6% in GDP over four years. Studies have shown that if the UK fails to bring infrastructure up to the standard of other developed economies, this could create an annual loss to the economy of £90 billion by 2026; so, in reality, the UK cannot afford not to invest in infrastructure. “

The UK’s motorway and trunk roads networks are managed by central Government around the country, while local roads are owed and funded by local authorities. These last mile connections are often essential to ports but not always treated in a strategic way. Many ports also seek improved rail access.

As the country moves towards net zero, electrification of infrastructure is becoming essential and separately as ports embrace the smart and invocation agendas they will need to be better connected digitally.

This exercise is open to all UK ports and terminals and it closes on 7 September. Ports who wish to submit proposals to the Port Connectivity Review can email info@britishports.org.uk for more information.

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